For years, Clean Wisconsin’s State of Change podcast has been your trusted source for in-depth conversations on the most pressing environmental issues in Wisconsin. The monthly podcast brought Clean Wisconsin’s work to life through insightful discussions with experts and advocates on the front lines of the fight to defend our environment.
Now, we’re excited to announce some big changes. The podcast has a new name and a new schedule. Readers of our quarterly publication will recognize The Defender—a brand that has been part of Clean Wisconsin for decades. By adopting this name, the podcast reinforces its connection to our work defending Wisconsin’s air, water, and communities from environmental harms. And with the shift to a weekly format, we’ll be bringing you even more timely insights, stories, and expert voices.
We sat down with Clean Wisconsin’s Communications Director and podcast host, Amy Barrilleaux, to learn about the rebrand, the power of storytelling, and what listeners can expect from The Defender podcast. 
The Defender name has been a part of Clean Wisconsin’s identity for a long time. What does the name represent and why does it make sense to apply it to the podcast?
I think we’re all looking for ways that we can make a difference and protect the places we love, now more than ever. So, adopting the Defender name was a natural choice. It immediately shows listeners that we all have a role to play, and each episode helps people understand where they can lend a hand and connect with Clean Wisconsin and a larger movement.
How will the shift to a weekly schedule help our listeners stay more informed about the environmental challenges facing Wisconsin?
There is so much going on—I could make this a daily podcast if I had time! Moving to weekly episodes just reflects the urgent times we’re living in. I try to keep things lighthearted but informative and cover the wide breadth of environmental issues we’re working on in Wisconsin, from safe water protection to sustainable farming to clean energy. The show is hopeful but pragmatic, just like Clean Wisconsin.
The Defender podcast features expert interviews and real-life stories from the front lines of environmental advocacy. What’s one interview or story you’re especially excited to share with listeners?
I really enjoyed my conversation with UW Madison professor Dr. James Krall. He’s studying the non-lethal effects of neonicotinoid pesticides on bees. In simpler terms, he looked at what happens to bees when they are exposed to just a little bit of these pesticides, not enough to kill them but enough to make an impact. I’m not sure anyone has ever really looked at that before. Maybe it’s just because I like bugs, but I thought the whole discussion was fascinating. We even talked a bit about his early research on dragonfly wings—definitely not to be missed! The episode should be out in April.
How can The Defender help bridge the gap between environmental experts and everyday listeners who might not be familiar with the technical details of environmental policy?
Environmental issues are complicated. The vocabulary we use around the office all the time can alienate audiences because it’s so technical and unfamiliar: per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), neonicotinoids (see above!), Kernza (it’s a good thing!), heat pumps (also good!), particulate matter (definitely not good!), I could go on and on.
So, the podcast is a chance to have a real conversation, to explain what’s happening and make environmental issues accessible to everyone, not just those of us who work on these issues every day. And understanding the problems and the solutions is the first step to building a community of advocates, which is the goal of our communications at Clean Wisconsin.
Storytelling is a powerful tool for environmental progress. How do you see it shaping public engagement and policy change?
Podcasts have become such a popular way for people to get information, and I think that’s because of the storytelling. It’s a format that gives you a chance to get to know someone and learn about their journey and perspectives. Listening to someone’s story like that can be powerful, and there are so many people in Wisconsin who are dedicating their lives and careers to making this state a cleaner, healthier place for all of us. I’m excited to be able to share their stories and help listeners understand and care about these issues.
For listeners who may not be familiar with Clean Wisconsin’s approach to environmental advocacy, how do you think the podcast will introduce them to the organization’s work?
Our natural resources and environment are all interconnected, so to protect them, Clean Wisconsin has people working on all facets of these issues. I think listeners will understand the deep expertise we have at Clean Wisconsin and the varied strategies we need to succeed, whether it’s scientific research, policy, community engagement or legal action. Plus, we have all kinds of partners who are working with us across Wisconsin. It’s exciting to learn about!
How can listeners engage with the content after listening to the podcast? Are there opportunities for them to take action, get involved, or share their own stories?
Yes! At the beginning of episodes, I’ve started talking about actions people can take. There’s always a way to make your voice heard, whether it’s supporting a clean energy project or speaking out against a pipeline or gas plant. As people see our federal government abdicating its role in protecting families from pollution and climate disaster, I think it creates a lot of stress and anger. But as my colleague Chelsea said in a recent episode, action is the antidote to despair. There are ways to make a difference, ways to get involved in meaningful action.
And I solicit interview ideas or questions and comments at the end of each episode. Just send an email to podcast@cleanwisconsin.org.
Where can listeners find The Defender podcast, and how can they stay connected with new episodes each week?
You can listen at cleanwisconsin.org/podcast or wherever you get your podcast. If you like the Defender, please leave a review. It helps other people find us. Thanks for listening!
